latest user's comments

The missing link right now is the power source, high pressure hydraulics/pneumatics would work, as would recirculating ball actuators. I personally prefer pneumatics since they are springy, fast, and the amount of pressure they apply can be regulated the best of these options. Pneumatics are especially good if impact absorption is required, as would be necessary for a prosthetic leg that function like an actual leg, or arms that can be used to absorb fall damage should you trip. One disadvantage is the amount of energy storage pneumatics have, if the system is breached they would release the high pressure air inside. Recirculating ball would likely be the easiest, safest, and definitely the most precise option, and they don't need a compressor or pump, they use steppers instead, the downside is every single actuator requires it's own stepper while the other systems directly convert fluid pressure into motion, so they simply need a hose and a pair of valves. Hydraulics are easier to implement than pneumatics since a smaller pump can be used, however, unlike pneumatics the pump has to be running all the time since hydraulic systems have almost no energy storage, they are less precise than recirculating ball, and it would be difficult to control how much force is being applied, hydraulic leaks are also messy, and tend to happen eventually due to their unyielding nature.